SAME TIME NEXT YEAR

CHERRY CREEK THEATRE: FEB. 4 – 27

 

     Poignant, funny and ultimately bittersweet, the Cherry Creek Theatre’s production of Same Time Next Year is a thoroughly satisfying production.

     Bernard Slade’s play gives us a love affair that begins as a one-night-stand and becomes an annual romantic getaway for a quarter century.

     It’s a romantic comedy in which the yearly clandestine rendezvous is framed by societal changes as well as those involving the lovers’ actual families.

     Eric Mather’s comic timing in the role of George is impeccable. Long known for his comic genius, this actor has evolved superb dramatic skills as well.  Both he and Lauren Bahlman as Doris, succeed in giving us as audience the illusion of aging minds and bodies as the years progress.

     Bahlman surfs the quarter century of annual one-night-stands with consummate brilliance.

     Due to the changing ages of the characters a number of wigs were used for Ms. Bahlman.  Most were excellent. However… one blonde wig in Act One was unfortunately easy to see through, ruining the illusion.

     Illuminated by Vance McKenzie’s great lighting design, David J. Castellano’s scenic design is the best use of the Pluss Theatre’s stage in memory.

     Susan Rahmsdorff-Terry’s costume design is superb.

     Billie McBride’s direction is excellent.

     Same Time Next Year comes highly recommended from this critic’s desk.

For tickets go online at cherrycreektheatre.org or call the box office at 303-800-6578